Assessment of Knowledge Regarding Airplane Ear Preventive Measures among Air Travelers of Najran University’s Staff

Abstract

Passengers before air travel should be frequently advised on the possible preventive measures to reduce any sort of ear discomfort. A cross-sectional survey-based approach was adopted to assess the prevalence of OBT, source of information on preventive measures for OBT, and respondents’ level of knowledge of preventive measures for aeroplane ear discomfort. 206 respondents i.e., air travellers of Najran University’s staff were sampled using a purposive sampling technique. Results highlighted that the prevalent symptoms of ear discomfort during air travel, which are most commonly observed such as ear pain, popping noises, reduced hearing, dizziness, and ringing noises in the ear. Also, findings explored that OBT is the severe health issue caused during air travel however mild concerns include pain or loss of hearing, vertigo and ear discharge. Most respondents were aware of ‘Chewing gum or sweets’ and ‘Yawning or swallowing’ as prevention measures, and ‘Blowing against a pinched nose (Valsalva maneuver)’ as preventive measures for ear discomfirt during air travel. ‘Internet’ (11.2%), ‘Posters/Leaflets in aeroplanes’ (7.8%), ‘Posters/Leaflets in airports’ (6.8%), and ‘Social Media’ are the most common sources of information for preventive measures to reduce prevalence of OBT. Adopting passive methods like yawning, moving the jaw, swallowing, etc. are quick techniques to deal with ear discomfort.